From idea to implementation: 6 questions and answers for your CRM project

Are you hesitant to implement a CRM in your company? Or are you already convinced, but are wondering what budget to plan for, how long does it take or whether the investment will be profitable?

At Lakhos, we hear these questions every day. Rather than answering them only during appointments, we have put together the most useful answers here, as if we were discussing them quietly over a coffee.

How much does a CRM implementation cost?

This is the question we get the most. And to be honest... it depends.

For an SME starting with a CRM like HubSpot, Pipedrive or Zoho CRM, you need to plan a budget covering:

1. The basic configuration of the system.
2. Automations that are essential for smooth operation.
3. The training of the teams concerned.

First and foremost, it's essential to clarify your project plan. Your needs must be well identified in order to establish a budget adapted to this first phase. If you have difficulty writing specifications or formalizing your project plan, a firm specializing in CRM can provide you with effective support.

In general, projects of type Onboarding vary between $3,000 and $10,000, while turnkey CRM projects can cost $15,000 and more. To better understand the differences between these approaches, we invite you to make an appointment with us. We'll explain the key things to consider and guide you through the next steps.

If your project requires tailor-made integration (for example with an ERP or complex data flows), the budget will naturally be higher. However, it should be remembered that a well-configured CRM often pays for itself in 6 to 12 months, thanks to productivity gains and an increase in the conversion rate. For example, an increase of 10 to 20% in your closing rate can have a very positive impact on your revenue, and a good CRM can contribute to this. Also to read: Maximize ROI through the use of a CRM

‍What if I already use the CRM module of my ERP?

That is a great question. For simple needs, this may be enough. But let's be realistic: in the majority of cases, a dedicated CRM brings much more value.

1. It is designed specifically for sales and business development.
2. It is much more efficient, especially for marketing functions.
3. It is more flexible and scalable in the long run.

The CRM module integrated into an ERP is often very basic. It usually includes opportunity management and sometimes a pipeline, but it often stops there.

Lead management, the centralization of sales activities (emails, SMS, calls), automations, sequences... all these elements are rarely integrated.

That's why solutions like HubSpot are often preferred by sales and marketing teams.

If your growth relies heavily on sales, it's almost always worth opting for a genuine CRM. To see: Why does your manufacturing business need a CRM?

How do I choose the right CRM for my business?

Don't start by making a list of features. Instead, start by analyzing your sales process, or even your entire lead-to-cash journey.

A CRM must adapt to your reality, not the other way around. The truth is that all good CRMs offer similar functionalities in general. What really sets them apart are:

- their ability to evolve over time (new functionalities, integrations),

- their level of personalization,

- and their user interface, which can make the experience pleasant or frustrating for your teams.

Here are a few examples depending on your context:

- HubSpot, Pipedrive, and Zoho CRM: perfect for SMEs looking for simplicity and efficiency.

- Salesforce: ideal for complex needs, but more time and budget intensive.

If you need an all-in-one solution that integrates sales, marketing, and customer service, HubSpot is often the smartest choice. Read also: How to choose the right CRM for your business

What concrete benefits can we expect from a CRM?

A CRM is not just another piece of software. It is a strategic platform, essential for:

1. Centralize all your customer data.
2. Improve the monitoring of sales opportunities.
3. Make decisions based on concrete data.

The result is immediate, so fewer lost opportunities, better visibility on your pipeline, and an increased ability to forecast your revenue.

How long does it take to implement a CRM?

There is no standard length of time for implementing a CRM. A project can move forward quickly... or take longer. Of course, the clarity of the project plan is crucial, but it's not the only factor.

The level of mobilization of the teams, their openness to change and their active involvement play a decisive role in the deadlines.

We often recommend starting small but solid: a well-targeted first phase, easy to adopt and really useful on a daily basis. The less resistance, the faster adoption. This approach creates a leverage effect: it reduces deadlines while making it easier for teams to join.

Here are some guidelines:

- A structured diagnosis, with workshops and process mapping, generally takes between one and two months.

- A classic CRM implementation, without major technical complexity, takes 3 to 4 months.

- For custom integrations (ERP, internal systems, API), it is necessary to allow several months, sometimes up to a year depending on the complexity.

And HubSpot in all of this?

HubSpot is fast becoming one of the most popular CRMs in the world. It's often compared to Salesforce, much like David versus Goliath.

It is a powerful, complete and yet easy to use solution. Even though the price may seem high at first glance, you have to consider the return on investment. What seems expensive at the beginning can generate significant benefits in the short and medium term.

HubSpot is also highly appreciated for its user-friendliness, both by marketing teams and by sales and customer service teams. It allows an increase in power without complicating the organization.

Here's why it's often chosen:

1. It's powerful yet easy to use.
2. It naturally integrates sales, marketing and customer service functions.
3. It promotes excellent adoption by teams.

For more information: HubSpot at Lakhos

In conclusion

Do you have questions about CRMs? It is completely normal. That's exactly why we've put these answers together. Better understanding the issues, costs and options available is already taking a big step towards an informed decision. A CRM should not be seen as a technical expense, but as a real lever to sell better, better serve your customers and manage your growth.

And if you are ready to move from idea to project, we will be happy to support you, with a clear, human approach adapted to your reality.